Reed's leaving Florida for the NFL

Florida tight end Jordan Reed, left, tries to catch a pass in the first half of the Sugar Bowl against Louisville Wednesday night in New Orleans. Louisville safety Jermaine Reve knocked the ball away on the play. Reed, the former New London High School star, announced Friday that he would forego his senior season to enter the NFL draft.

Published January 05. 2013 12:01AM

By MARK LONG AP Sports Writer

Gainesville, Fla. - No. 4 Florida is losing at least three underclassmen to the NFL.

Tight end Jordan Reed, the former New London High School star, declared for the NFL draft Friday. He joined safety Matt Elam and defensive tackle Sharrif Floyd as Florida players skipping their senior season.

Reed, a junior, led the Gators with 45 receptions for 559 yards and three touchdowns this season. He was a first-team, All-SEC selection by The Associated Press.

"I've enjoyed four good years at Florida, but I feel that now is the right time to pursue my dream of playing in the NFL," Reed said in a statement released by the school.

Reed's older brother David, who finished his high school career at New London, is a wide receiver with the Baltimore Ravens.

Floyd and Elam announced their intentions following a 33-23 loss to Louisville in the Sugar Bowl on Wednesday night. Defensive end Dominique Easley said he was unsure about his plans.

"It's been a dream for all three of these players to pursue a career in the NFL and now they are all getting a chance to realize that dream," coach Will Muschamp said. "We are very thankful for their contributions to the Florida football program over the years and we wish them the very best of luck in the pursuit of their dreams."

Reed's draft stock is the most questionable of the three early entrants.

Floyd and Elam are considered early round picks, maybe even first-day selections.

Floyd recorded 46 tackles, including a team-high 13 for loss. He also had six quarterback hurries, three sacks, two blocked kicks and a forced fumble.

"I sat down and talked to a lot of people about my decision and I'm going to go in the draft this year," Floyd said. "All my focus was on my team and on this season. Now it's time to move on. The coaches supported my decision and I'm ready."

Elam led the Gators with four interceptions and was second on the team with 76 tackles. Elam had 11 tackles for loss, five pass breakups, two sacks and a forced fumble.

"I've had three great years here at the University of Florida," said Elam, whose older brother plays in the NFL.